The new packaging, labelled with Percentage Daily Intake, will advise consumers about required daily amounts of protein, fats, saturated fats, carbohydrates, sugar and sodium. Percentages set against an average adult diet of 8700kJ as determined by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).

"From next month we will be introducing Percentage Daily Intake on our packaging so customers can see what percentage of their total total daily intake of energy and nutrients are in our products. This includes our burgers, fries and salads," said CEO Peter Bush.

Concerns that fast food producers perpetuate the obesity epidemic has led to a focus on healthy alternatives. By labelling packaging with Percentage Daily Intake intake McDonalds claims it hopes to help consumers understand more about nutrition.

McDonalds will educate consumers through in-store campaigns, TV commercials and on its internet site.

The fast food retailer also revealed this week that it plans further changes in food production.

"In November we will be introducing a next generation canola oil blend that will be virtually free of trans fatty acids and still with the same great taste. The new oil, like our existing oil, will be in line with recognised guidelines for healthy oils," Mr Bush said.

This move is in relation to rising obesity levels across the world. Research by the World Health Organisation shows that Australia is the only country in the world where childhood obesity is climbing faster than among adults. The number of overweight or obese children has doubled since 1985, and now affects 23 per cent of all of those under the age of 16.